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A batch process station monitors time-based manufacturing operations where production occurs in batches rather than continuous output. Unlike standard production stations that track piece counts, batch stations measure process duration and monitor each step of the batch manufacturing cycle.

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Key characteristics

Time-based measurement Batch stations track process time (measured in minutes) rather than product quantities. This approach is ideal for chemical processes, food production, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and other industries where materials are processed in controlled batches.

Step-by-step process monitoring Each batch consists of multiple sequential steps, and Evocon monitors the OEE performance of individual process steps. This granular visibility helps identify bottlenecks and optimize specific phases of your batch production.

Output and usage Batch processes typically produce raw materials, intermediate products, or bulk quantities that serve as inputs for downstream operations like packaging, further processing, or assembly into finished goods.

Batch completion logic When a process step reaches its target time (set during changeover), the step is considered complete. Any additional time spent on that step beyond the target is automatically classified as speed loss (indicated in yellow) until the next changeover initiates the subsequent step.

OEE calculation Unlike piece-based production where speed is measured by output rate, batch OEE calculates efficiency based on planned versus actual process times for each step, providing accurate performance insights for time-driven manufacturing operations.

How to set up a batch process station in Evocon?

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To use batch process on a station, please contact Evocon Support to enable it.

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After the batch process feature has been enabled for a station, you configure the individual process steps under Settings → Products. While batch steps are configured in the same location as regular products, the setup process differs.

Configuration details

• Unit of measurement: Process steps are typically measured in minutes (rather than piece counts)
• Target time setting: Each step can have a predefined target time.
• Automatic population: When target times are configured in Settings, they automatically populate during changeovers in Shift View, eliminating the need for operators to enter them manually.
• Operator flexibility: Operators retain the ability to adjust target times during changeovers when process conditions require it.

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The “Target time” field only appears under batch step settings for stations that have the batch process monitoring enabled.

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Inserting a changeover for batch process step

Inserting changeovers for batch steps follows the same workflow as standard product changeovers, with one key addition: you must define a "Target time" for the process step.